Topical Issues | SuDS Law and Standards

INTERPAVE RESPONSE DEFENDS SUDS

Draft National Standards for Sustainable Drainage Systems (SuDS) were issued for consultation by the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) at the end of 2011. The Standards are intended to meet the requirements of the Flood and Water Management Act 2010 (FWM Act), which makes SuDS effectively mandatory. Interpave has just published its response to the Standards consultation, urging government to think again about a proposed ‘get-out clause’ and raising other important issues.

The draft SuDS Standards include an ‘Affordability’ clause where full compliance is only required up to the cost of equivalent conventional (piped) drainage. But, as Interpave points out, it is well-accepted that a universal – not sporadic - application of SuDS is essential to impact on the prevention of downstream flooding and pollution, particularly in the context of continuing ‘urban creep’ and climate change. Critical mass is essential for SuDS in the urban environment and there is no room for exceptions.

No other regulations or standards intended to protect lives, properties, businesses and communities (for example Building Regulations), or intended to address key sustainability issues allow for relaxation purely on the grounds of affordability. If adopted, this provision would set a dangerous precedent. The government seems to have forgotten about the major financial, as well as human, costs imposed on those affected by downstream flooding including householders, social housing providers, local authorities, infrastructure providers and insurers. In any case, when designed correctly and as an integral part of the project, SuDS are often lower in cost than conventional alternatives.

Interpave’s full response document can be downloaded here (256KB).

Defra proposes working in conjunction with other organisations over the next few months to develop more detailed guidance than the National Standards offer. Interpave has already indicated its willingness to be a part of this process and has in place a wealth of information on permeable paving and SuDS.

Throughout 2012 and beyond, Interpave will be updating users of this website with the latest developments in implementation of the FWM Act: add this page to your Favourites. Interpave is also a founder member of SuDSsource, organiser of the National SuDS Conference which will provide an essential forum for all those affected by the Act.